Service learning participants normally communicate with one another via regular communication methods like landline telephones, cell-phones (including sms) and e-mail. Students, lecturers and community members involved in service learning often comment that there is not enough direct collaboration and communication among all of them as service learning participants. Strand et al. (2003:56) mentioned that web-based software such as Blackboard (a learning management system) provides a useful platform for sharing information regarding the module, including written materials and meeting schedules. Bringle, Clayton and Price (2009:8) propose that, for purposes of effective relationship-building, service learning practitioners must be prepared to articulate a broad mission and particular goals to potential partners, knowing when relationships are mutually desirable, engaging in effective communication with both internal and external constituencies. This paper reports the outcomes of a pilot study that was implemented in September 2012 at the Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences, University of the Free State (South Africa) to investigate and explore the use of a learning management system (LMS) in the service learning environment. This was done in preparation for the fact that in 2013 all the second years (400 students) in the Faculty will be enrolled for a service learning module with the code: EGAP60106. Effective communication among a large number of participants will be crucial. It is known that service learning projects can only be a success if there is proper communication among those involved in the actions. The study found that the collaborative space available on the LMS helped the role players to communicate more regularly, openly and honestly. It was clear that the LMS created a safe environment for the participants to communicate in and this assisted with the relationship-building in a trusting environment. The effective, optimal use of an LMS also enhances the service learning experience because all the role players have equal access to information that is relevant for the project to succeed.
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